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Ice, ice, baby

Psychology freshman Miranda Shaver laces up for the Spartan Synchronized Skating practice Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013, at Munn Ice Arena. The team practiced for long hours throughout the week to prepare for their competition on Sunday. Katie Stiefel/ The State News

Co-captain of the Spartan Synchronized Skating team, Jessica Chartier, middle, practices a specific part of a routine Monday, Jan. 7, 2013, at Munn Ice Arena. Chartier has been skating since age 7 and has been on the MSU team since her freshman year. Katie Stiefel/ The State News

Ever since joining the team her freshman year, Chartier said she considers it her top priority.

“A lot of people say, ‘School comes first,’ but I’m not one of those people,” Chartier said. “If I have a test and I know I also have practice, I’d rather take a nap so that I’m ready for practice, rather than studying for the exam.”

Head coach of the skating team Laura Friedman said she admires Chartier’s work ethic.